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An alarming rise in the number of girls and young women being identified as victims of county lines exploitation has been documented, revealing significant gaps in how authorities perceive and respond to this issue. Data released by Catch22, a charity dedicated to tackling county lines trafficking, indicates that females constituted 22% of their caseload in 2025, a notable increase from 15% the previous year. This trend underscores the necessity for a deeper understanding of the gender-specific dynamics at play in these criminal networks.
Increasing Recognition of Female Victims
The figures from Catch22 reflect a broader concern within the charity sector regarding the treatment and identification of young female victims in the context of county lines. Traditionally, the narrative surrounding county lines has focused predominantly on male victims, leading to a lack of tailored support for girls. Marike van Harskamp, Catch22’s head of policy, emphasised the importance of recognising the complexities surrounding female involvement in these crimes.
“Part of the problem is that there is a very gendered understanding of criminal exploitation,” van Harskamp noted. “It often means girls are not properly identified.” The charity’s data reveals that while approximately half of the boys referred to their services received assistance from the National Referral Mechanism, a government initiative aimed at supporting victims of modern slavery, only one in six girls benefitted from the same support.
Understanding the ‘Boyfriend Model’
A significant factor contributing to the victimisation of young women in county lines exploitation is the so-called “boyfriend model”. This method mirrors patterns seen in child sexual exploitation, where girls may be groomed under the guise of a romantic relationship, only to be coerced into criminal activities such as drug transportation.
Van Harskamp elaborated on this disturbing trend, stating: “For girls to become involved in child criminal exploitation and county lines, we know there is a bit more complexity in their experience.” She highlighted that the grooming often occurs through social media platforms, which gangs exploit to target those with existing vulnerabilities, including mental health issues, substance misuse, or unstable living arrangements.
The Government’s Response and Ongoing Challenges
In response to the growing crisis, the government has reported a record disbandment of county lines operations. In 2025 alone, authorities closed 2,740 lines, charged 1,657 gang leaders, and seized 961 knives. Furthermore, an investment exceeding £34 million has been earmarked for the county lines programme this year.
Despite these efforts, van Harskamp stressed that much work remains to be done. “Our service sees children as young as seven being groomed,” she remarked. “It is crucial to frame county lines exploitation as a form of child abuse, forcing children into activities they should never be engaging in.”
The long-term psychological impact of such exploitation is profound, with many victims experiencing significant mental health challenges. Experts advocate for specialised mental health support for these individuals, underscoring the connection between mental well-being and future life opportunities.
A Unified Approach to Tackle County Lines
Detective Superintendent Dan Mitchell, leading the national county lines coordination centre, reiterated the police’s commitment to addressing this issue. “As county lines gangs’ methods evolve, our policing approach does too,” he stated. “We remain committed to pursuing high-harm county lines and those controlled by violent drug dealers.”
There is a clear recognition among law enforcement and charities alike that the fight against county lines exploitation requires a multifaceted approach, one that encompasses dedicated resources for mental health care, educational support, and tailored strategies for young women.
Why it Matters
The rise in female victims of county lines exploitation is not merely a statistic; it is a call to action. As the nature of these crimes becomes increasingly complex, it is imperative for services to adapt and expand their understanding of victimisation. By recognising the unique challenges faced by girls and young women, society can develop more effective interventions and support systems, ultimately breaking the cycle of exploitation and safeguarding vulnerable individuals. The implications of failing to act are profound—not only for the victims themselves but for communities grappling with the repercussions of such criminal activities.
